Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

(mostly) good thoughts

Rate this book
For anyone learning to find the good, even when life isn’t perfect.

(mostly) good thoughts is a gentle, honest poetry collection about life, healing, and finding hope in the everyday.

Written with warmth and a touch of self-aware humor, these short poems reflect on love, uncertainty, anxiety, gratitude, and the quiet beauty of simply being human. They’re small reflections on everyday moments—some hopeful, some heavy—but all gently true.

With a mix of vulnerability and wit, this book speaks to anyone who’s ever tried to stay soft in a hard world. It’s perfect for readers who find comfort in lowercase lines, unpolished feelings, and the kind of words that meet you where you are.

Whether you’re looking for comforting poems for healing, thoughtful reflections on life, or modern poetry that feels like a deep breath, (mostly) good thoughts offers a place to pause, reflect, and feel seen.

139 pages, Hardcover

Published September 15, 2025

1 person is currently reading
4 people want to read

About the author

Elena Carter

30 books63 followers
Elena Carter lives by the sea in the beautiful city of Varna, Bulgaria.

When she’s not writing, you might find her chasing her toddler around the house or pushing the stroller along the city streets, while taking pictures of all the cats and flowers around and at the same time thinking of story ideas.

Elena believes that dreams are meant to be followed, magic actually exists and coffee can fix pretty much anything.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
10 (62%)
4 stars
5 (31%)
3 stars
1 (6%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Ellen Khodakivska.
Author 7 books50 followers
October 15, 2025
5.5/5🩵

“(mostly) Good Thoughts” by Elena Carter

🦉It was such a pleasure to join the gentle flock of musings carefully gathered by Elena Carter and to experience them all once again, fully and deeply.

🦉The Plot: This is a small book of massive, eternal, and everlasting reflections that usually nestle cozily or flutter restlessly through our minds. This little gem gathers a wide spectrum of thoughts we encounter every day. Some are kind, others not, yet all of them are frequent visitors, each demanding a moment of our attention. They want to be noticed, recognized, understood, accepted, and gently tended to.
These visitors are like wise, owl-teachers, bringing lessons wrapped in feathers and silence. And once their lessons are learned, the feathered teachers spread their wings and fly away, leaving only a fine dusting of quiet wisdom upon our hearts.

🦉The Writing Style: The book includes 108 thoughts—some brief, some longer—composed and arranged beautifully, lyrically, and with quiet wisdom. They invite you to see familiar ideas through a new lens, offering fresh perspectives on what you may have already encountered. And if you’re meeting some of these reflections for the first time, they make that first encounter gentle yet unforgettable—illuminating your path and making the future feel a little easier, smoother, and brighter.

🩵The Fave Quote:

“The only person you should compete with

lives on the other side of the mirror in your yesterday”

🫶🏼Would I read other books by this author: Yes!

🫶🏼My humble rating is: 5.5/5

🦉P.S. I gave my highest, humble rating to this magnificent collection of wise thoughts because every single one resonated with my soul, heart, and body. While reading this book, I fidgeted on my sofa, feeling an irresistible urge to text the author and tell her how deeply I shared these very same musings—and how grateful I was to someone who had gathered them so intelligently, so gently, and arranged them into such a graceful bookish performance.

🦉In my mind, I joined the wise owls perched on a massive branch in a magical forest, where I could sit with them and discuss those never-ending, vital musings that keep the soul awake.
Profile Image for Ismail Tokan.
4 reviews
November 19, 2025
"Mostly Good Thoughts" contains poetic reflections on the human inner journey. From pain, loss, and self-doubt, to recovery and meaning of life, the author Elena Carter guides readers through an internal emotional world with simplicity and impact. It consists of more than a hundred short chapters and reflects emotional accessibility as readers will find the book immensely poetic and emotional. Not merely a poetry compilation, the book serves as a guide through introspection, to discover the inner strength often overshadowed by life, old wounds, and external pressure.

One of the book's many strengths is the unfiltered and unbridled honesty that Carter shares in this memoir. Sadness, frustration, weariness, hope, and peace are all part of the spectrum Carter discusses and shares with the audience. Readers feel that the author is speaking intimately and sharing personal, unfiltered, unevolved raw feelings of struggle and emotional pain that come from public and private confrontations. Themes about letting go, finding self-acceptance, setting personal boundaries, and the quest for peace help the audience feel continuity and constancy of emotional growth.

You "won", "Letting Go", or "Seed" All are equally about losing and gaining at the same time. All about the challenges of expressing yourself and the benefits of trying. And by sincere devotion and precision. This flows beautifully, allowing the audience to pause and self reflect.

This book displays the part of loneliness and the fear of looking in the mirror (not to see yourself, but to see “yourself” as is.). Carter submerges and convinces us about being & narrating of how many of us imprison ourselves by expectations, the self-framed goals, emotional baggage, and the constant state of tension. "Pretending", "Trapped", "Fix This Mess" All about the struggles of facing the most difficult and honest voice within yourself. But this story doesn’t only espouse the dark. There are light filled contrasts. "Joy", "Focus on Love", "You Matter". They remind us about the light that always shines and that the choice to embrace the light is always with us. Even if the day is filled with night. Hope is always present.

Carter’s description of the relationship of human beings and the world is stunning. He talks about emotional changes and the different phases of a life cycle using natural phenomena—the sun, wind, flowers, and spring. The poems “Sunflowers,” “Spring Itself,” and “Wind” calm the mind and heart, and remind the listener to take a deep breath and recognize the importance of life and all its moving pieces even in moments of deep calm.

As far as format goes, every section of the book is its own standalone work, making the book a pleasure to read. There is no central story to follow which allows the reader to flip to any page they like and read a poem that may resonate with their current thoughts. Because of the structure of the book, it’s perfect to be used as a daily read, a way to read smaller amounts at a time, or to be used when one is seeking peace of mind.

Carter's work may not fit the expectations of a conventional poem, with a definite structure and a long, elaborate sequence of narrative story lines since she is more inclined towards reflective pieces of writing. However, that remains one of the factors attracting many of her readers as the composition is fragmentary, genuine, and instantly gratifying.

Readers who are in the process of contemplation, transit, or rather, an emotional renewal phase in their lives will find the work more relevant. The work will remind readers of the emotional support that one offers to a close friend going through a phase in her life and the conversations that one draws from those phases whereby the struggles may not appear in the public domain. As a writing that approaches the viewpoint of one who exhibits complex emotions yet remains on the positive side of life.

Mostly Good Thoughts is an inclusive balance of gentleness with the strength of honesty (I give this book 4 stars). The work moves away from the conventional expectations of title poems replete with technical finesse to produce a crafted heart work that. It offers its gentle readers a reflection of life's fragmented, imperfection, and genuine meaning since life in its overall form may not be perfect.
Profile Image for Mr. Kreher.
Author 1 book9 followers
September 14, 2025
Before my review, I have to first give praise to the author. I have been interacting with Elena for a few years now on social media. In a world so dark, Elena sheds light by sharing fantastical beautiful pictures of her surroundings to majestic butterflies and delicate wind blown flowers to tranquil seas and gorgeous selfies of her on the streets of magnificent historical Varna.

The same light and joy comes through (Mostly) Good Thoughts.

Lately, the world seems so broken with hatred and violence, people lost and unloved. In my own opinion, I believe technology to be a double-edged sword. We can use it as a tool to understand the world and differences among us to come closer together. But the harsh reality is few of us do, and then technology separates us from compassion and goodwill to others. The media, again in my opinion, exacerbates our separation with horrid images not only in my own country, but around the world. They tell us through cloudy lenses that we are so different from other civilizations that they are practically outer world aliens. Idiocy comes to those who believe such a thing, or cave to the brainwashing subliminal messages.

Reading Elena Carter's (Mostly) Good Thoughts, I was in awe of her poetical writing for the number one reason that her private thoughts (not so much now) are the same as mine. Through her depictions of over rampant running thoughts and being kind to yourself and others, I was instantly connected as a reader to the author. And even though, we are half a world apart, we are very similar with the same thoughts, compassion and hope for a peaceful world. If we could distribute this act-of-goodwill message on the basis we are similar across the ocean divides to every country around the world, we'd be able to enact a more serene world captivated by its wondrous natural magic through intricate designs from plants, animals, and landscape to the uniqueness of each person. Imagine the love and joy we would be so blessed with.

So, thank you to Elena for sharing your love of all things good through your writing and your pictures. Especially thank you for sharing your thoughts through this particular book (Mostly) Good Thoughts because any reader who devours its words in the same manner as myself will feel less lonely and more connected to someone who lives so distantly away and maybe, just maybe, they will realize the same connection can be felt through a stranger or a friend only a few steps away.
Profile Image for Eve Koguce.
Author 6 books398 followers
September 29, 2025
I loved the previous poetry collection by this author and could not miss the opportunity to read what she has written next. “(mostly) good thoughts” by Elena Carter did not disappoint. The hurricane of emotions swept me off my feet, and there I was, swirling amidst myriads of thoughts, memories, flickers of my inner light, catching glimpses of the darkness, ever-present in the background.

When you grow older, it becomes clear that life is not a one-coloured canvas. It is a mosaic, and its pieces are not uniform. A shining white patch can take half of it, abruptly melting into obsidian black. Or the tapestry can be so miscellaneous that it’s impossible to follow when one bright hue changes into another. “(mostly) good thoughts” reflects this unpredictable diversity perfectly, with each next poem striking a different chord in readers’ hearts.

“one of the hardest things in this life is letting go…” Reading this, one might think that it’s about the bad things. To move forward, we must let go of what’s holding us back. When we think about it, most often we imagine something painful, something that felt like a burden or really was such. I’ve come to appreciate the ability to let go of the happy memories too. Sometimes the brightest, most joyful moments of your life can poison you for decades, oozing bitterness about the impossibility of reliving them.

“…sadness wrapped in twinkling lights…” This is another line that threw me into contemplating my own experiences. I am that person around whom most people who know me feel uncomfortable during the festive season. I understand and do not hold it against them. Yet, it doesn’t help with making it hurt less.

“Whether to build bridges or to burn them” is everyone’s personal choice. As it is up to each reader individually whether they read certain genres or not. But to everyone who appreciates poetry, I heartily recommend reading “(mostly) good thoughts” by Elena Carter. The author’s piercing sincerity is captivating, as is her ability to put into words the important things about which most of us think only fleetingly, trapped in the perpetual motion of everyday life.
Profile Image for Jaymin Shah.
Author 4 books
September 25, 2025
This book feels like a conversation with a friend who understands both the heaviness of life and the lightness.

It’s a poetry collection, but not the kind that feels distant or abstract. Elena writes with raw honesty about pain, healing, hope, and everyday beauty. From learning to let go, to embracing silence, to remembering that you matter, every poem carries a gentle reminder that even in difficult seasons, there’s something worth holding on to.

What I Loved: The poems are short but powerful; you can pick it up anytime and find a line that speaks to you. It balances real struggles (grief, loneliness, self-doubt) with hope and light. Some pieces feel like daily affirmations you’ll want to revisit again and again.

What to Know: It’s emotional. Some poems may stir up old wounds, but in a healing way. If you prefer structured, rhyming poetry, this one leans more toward free verse and personal reflection.

My Take: This isn’t just a book you read once it’s one you’ll keep by your side, for when life feels heavy, and you need a reminder that the storm will pass. A soothing, heartfelt collection.
Profile Image for Cait's Reading Nook.
208 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2025
(mostly) good thoughts by Elena Carter is a collection of poems that reminds us to celebrate joy and finding gratitude.

While having an optimistic and hopeful tone, it’s also an honest and reflective collection.

There were many poems in the collection that resonated with me, including “Simple Joys,” “Wind,” “Same But Different,” “Sunflowers” and “Spring Itself.” This collection helps remind us through our everyday moments, nature, the seasons, and the people around us to take time to be mindful and find joy and that there are hard times and times we feel down. And that’s part of our humanity.

I recommend this collection and look forward to reading more from Elena Carter.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Leah Tregier.
Author 1 book9 followers
September 4, 2025
This poetry collection was like sitting with an older, wiser version of myself. It was rich in advice, gentle encouragement, and almost a guidebook for learning what to change & learn early, before it’s too late and I’ve given so much time to an empty action (like not being able to say no). I felt encouraged & I thought I’d share my favourite line with you:

“My strength does not define me, I leave room for my weakness. My sadness does not define me, I know it will pass. Three things I allow to define me:
- the love I carry
- the kindness I spread
- the light I bring”

It was a joy to read this ARC x
Profile Image for B.S.H. Garcia.
Author 5 books117 followers
September 18, 2025
Another poetry collection from Elena Carter that absolutely lands. What I love about this one is how it has just enough feel-good poems to help you bounce back from the ones that punch you in the gut. Carter doesn't dance around heavy subjects, preferring to face them head on with just enough optimism to make you feel like no matter how hard it gets, you are enough, and you will rise again. She paints beauty in the seemingly dull moments, and reminds you to not get weighed down by the overwhelmingly important ones. I also love the simplistic art scattered throughout. 10/10 recommend.
Profile Image for Adelynne.
14 reviews6 followers
October 14, 2025
If I were to describe Mostly Good Thoughts by Elena Carter in ONE word, it would be "softness".

This book is a tender, introspective collection that feels like a quiet walk through someone’s heart.

With gentle prose and thoughtful reflections, Elena explores themes of healing, hope, and the everyday magic of being alive.

Each page offers a soft nudge toward self-compassion and presence, making it a comforting companion for anyone navigating change or seeking stillness.

It was perfect for my slow mornings and journaling sessions!

Thank you, Elena, for this little gem.
183 reviews10 followers
December 1, 2025
This Poem is a warm, gentle collection that captures the quiet struggles and small victories of being human. These poems feel like soft conversations honest, slightly self teasing, and tender in the way they reach for hope without ignoring the heaviness underneath. The mix of vulnerability and wry simplicity makes each piece feel intimate, like a thought jotted down in the middle of a moment that mattered. It’s a comforting, reflective read that lingers in a peaceful, settling way.
Profile Image for Elliel.
109 reviews2 followers
October 31, 2025
Disclaimer I requested and received this book from BookSirens. My opinions are my own.

"(Mostly) Good Thoughts" by Elena Carter was just the bright light I needed right now. I have so many bookmarks, highlights, and notes scattered throughout the book that I couldn't narrow down my favorite poems. I feel like this collection is full of things every person should hear. It's all about acknowledging the daily darkness but also building yourself up to face it. It's such a refreshing read so much so that I took eight days to read it so it would last longer. I want to recommend this book to my therapist because it feels like a great example of radical self acceptance. I want to recommend it to my friends for the same reasons. I loved this collection.
Profile Image for Alinar Den.
Author 13 books46 followers
October 9, 2025
Reevaluating in progress...

After reading this book, I have an urge to reevaluate my life, regroup my mind, adjust my thoughts. It gave me so much food for thought!
It's beautiful, poetic, mindful, therapeutic... it's priceless!
Profile Image for Shreya Srivastava.
28 reviews1 follower
October 3, 2025
heartfelt and raw collection of words that are powerful, relatable and might provide comfort to your overthinking brain. Must read once in your lifetime<3
Profile Image for Sophie Bowns.
Author 18 books102 followers
December 21, 2025
Lovely cover

I really loved the front cover of the book. A lot of the poems were very short and more like quotes, but there were some good messages in there.
Profile Image for Zsaffryn Terra.
73 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2026
This is a wonderful poetry book that got me thinking about (mostly) good things—and many important things besides. My writer’s heart particularly enjoyed the poems that are a tribute to words.
Profile Image for Amanda Sloothaak.
Author 2 books28 followers
September 4, 2025
This is an interesting book that makes you think about life and events within life. Some poems have sit you still and stare for a moment or two. At the same time it's also very encouraging. A lovely book!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.